‘She’s wonderful’: Whataburger employee, 89, has customers coming in just to see her

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas (KRIS) - A Texas Whataburger employee is warming customers’ hearts with her caring nature and endless work ethic.

Many say Terry Guerra has been a beacon of warmth and hospitality in Corpus Christi, where she has worked in the restaurant industry for more than half a century, including 17 years at an area Whataburger.

“I was a waitress for over 60 years before I came here. I worked for a Mexican restaurant called Ray’s restaurant for 32 years before they closed in 2004,” Guerra said.

Now, working at Whataburger, she is serving up burgers with a side of friendliness.

Guerra has earned the title of service ambassador.

At 89 years young, she’s considered one of Whataburger’s most experienced employees. She’s been featured in various stories, including one from the Washington Post.

Customers say they come for the burgers but stay for Guerra’s company.

“We come on Wednesdays for mainly one reason and that’s because Terry’s here. We can always count on her, she’s wonderful to us. She’s like a second mother,” customer Frank McNiff said.

Another customer, Tom Salazar, added: “We’ve gotten to know her over the years and she is an incredibly nice person.”

Some customers come all the way from Dallas, Oklahoma, and even California to see her.

Guerra’s family says it’s a blessing to see her appetite for life.

“She’s 89 years old; I have a lot of friends who are on canes and walkers, and they can’t work anymore. I’m just so blessed because my mom can still work,” Melissa Salinas, Guerra’s daughter, said.

Guerra said family and dancing are what keep her going.

As she continues to move through life with a purpose, she has become more than an employee.

Guerra is family to many and is the main ingredient in making this Whataburger feel like home.

 

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